We do not believe that there are any laws that require a minimum interest rate that a bank must charge for a loan. As stated in the Illinois Interest Act, a bank is authorized “to receive or contract to receive and collect interest and charges at any rate or rates agreed upon by the bank or branch and the borrower.” 815 ILCS 205/4(1). Also, Section 4(1) of the Illinois Interest Act states that “it is lawful to charge, contract for, and receive any rate or amount of interest or compensation with respect to . . . (l) Loans secured by a mortgage on real estate.” 815 ILCS 205/4(1)(l). And Section 5e of the Banking Act states that “[n]otwithstanding the provisions of any other law in connection with extensions of credit” banks may charge any fees, “subject only to the provisions of [subsection 4(1)] of the Interest Act,” provided that the bank sets fees based on its “prudent business judgment and safe and sound operating standards.” 205 ILCS 5/5e.
Is there a minimum interest rate that we have to charge on any types of loans?
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